1988 944s

I recently had my shifter disconnect completely. Luckily the bolt that holds it on by the trans was still there so I tightened it up and it hasnt moved since. After I did that, shifting to all gears was perfect, no play what soever. Over time though my shift **** has gotten more play over time. I got under the car the other day to see if that bolt had come loose again; it didnt.. But I did notice a part(I am not too sure what the hell it is called; I attached a picture with a red circle around it) can be pushed in as if it should be pushed in and stay in. I am wondering if this is the problem? I am pretty stumped on what to do at this point of time. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!

 

That's normal. That circled item that moves side to side matches the side to side movement in your shifter, so it should move.

Usually sloppy shifting is the shift lever itself wears out.

http://www.clarks-garage.com/shop-manual/trans-07.htm

If your shifter is the problem, then I'd suggest this one to replace it:

http://only944.com/partscatalog/only/shifter/

I like their other parts as well.

 

I had similar issues with my old transmission and I fixed it by doing what Swede is suggesting.

 

+944